Ephesians (W5D2) Greater Insight
Week 5. Tuesday: Greater Insight
PRAY: Ask God to speak to you from His Word.
READ: Ephesians 3:4-6
4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.
UNDERSTAND: get a deeper understanding of the key words
Understand (Greek: noeō): to perceive with the mind
Can also mean “consider” or “reflect” (2 Timothy 2:7).
Understanding requires faith (Hebrews 11:1-3).
Insight (Greek: synesis): flowing together or putting together in the mind
The Holy Spirit gives us understanding and insight (Colossians 1:9).
Understanding and insight was always Paul’s goal (Colossians 2:2).
Mystery of Christ (Greek: mystērion Christos): the hidden truth of the gospel
The gospel is a mystery to those who do not believe.
Part of the mystery is Christ living in us (Colossians 1:27).
Paul outlined the mystery in 1 Timothy 3:16.
In Other Generations (Greek: heteros genea): former multitudes of people
Christ (the Messiah) was not completely revealed in the Old Testament.
Therefore, generations of people did not fully understand the Messiah.
The New Testament reveals the mystery of Christ (Colossians 1:26).
Revealed (Greek: apokalyptō): to uncover, to make known, to make clear
Apostles (Greek: apostolos): the first followers of Christ, the New Testament writers
Prophets (Greek: prophētēs): spokesmen for God
APPLY: What is this passage calling me to do?
The goal of Paul’s writings and sermons was to help people understand the gospel clearly. He wanted everyone to understand the insight he received from God. This is why reading and studying God’s word is vital to the Christian life. There is no other way to understand the gospel and God’s will for humanity. This is why so many churchgoers struggle to live out God’s word. You can live what you don’t know.
How much time do you spend reading and studying God’s word?
What do you need to stop doing so you can spend more time with God?
PRAY: Ask God to help you gain a greater understanding of His word.
